How Does Hospice Care Support Families and Patients?

When most people think about hospice care, the focus is on the patient. However, hospice care is an incredible resource for the family of the person receiving care. Whether you're navigating the complexities of your aging family member’s healthcare, or you're a caregiver juggling multiple responsibilities, understanding how hospice care supports your entire family can ease your burden and provide peace of mind.

What is Hospice Care?

Hospice care is designed for individuals facing serious illnesses with limited time left to live. Research has shown that initiating hospice care earlier can be immensely beneficial for patients, caregivers, and their families.

At Mary Washington Hospice, our primary goal is to ensure the utmost comfort and dignity for our patients. This approach not only improves the patient's quality of life but also fosters more meaningful moments with their loved ones. We focus on managing the patient's pain and addressing medical concerns, while also supporting families as they navigate their loved one's illness and eventual passing.

Practical Help for Caregivers

Caregivers often experience burnout due to the demanding nature of their role. Our comprehensive team is here to provide you with the utmost care and support. Our nurses maintain regular contact with patients and their families. They administer medications, provide symptom and pain management, and act as a crucial link to physicians for comprehensive care.

Additionally, hospice helps with day-to-day tasks, such as ordering medications, arranging for the delivery of medical equipment, and offering personal care assistance.

Emotional and Psychological Support for Families

Hospice isn't just about managing physical symptoms; it's also about offering emotional support. Our team provides comfort and spiritual guidance during this challenging time. We connect you with valuable community resources to meet your unique needs. We provide ongoing bereavement support for 13 months after the loss of your loved one. This support can include supportive calls, short-term counseling services, guidance on coping with grief, and ongoing grief support groups.

Education and Resources for Families

We understand that families may feel uncertain or overwhelmed, we offer resources to guide caregivers through every stage of the end-of-life process. From explaining what to expect medically to offering information on navigating insurance, these resources help families make informed decisions, reduce confusion, and feel empowered.